Minnesota Vikings cornerback Akayleb Evans showed flashes in his rookie season, but it was ultimately cut short by concussions. In a press conference on Wednesday following OTAs, Evans shared how he plans to progress in his second year as a pro:
“I’m really excited. I feel like I was able to show some flashes of what I can do last year, but I feel like this year is about taking over. And I also see myself as a leader, you know? I’ve usually been the quiet guy, but I feel like Pat P [Patrick Peterson] set a good example of how to lead in your own way. Just getting all the other DBs involved, and you know, even outside the facility, all of us getting together. Coach [Brian] Flores has talked a lot about doing that, everybody coming together. So, I feel like I’m stepping into that role, and I can thrive in that role.”
The Vikings have a young cornerback group, and it will be crucial for someone in that locker room to step up if the team hopes to succeed. Evans appears confident in his ability, not only as a player but also as a leader. He is saying all the right things heading into Year 2.
[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z1V3HIOPApI]